Jan Bražina
June—August 2025
→ Bucharest
Jan Bražina (*1997), an artist based in Brno, Czechia who has made his mark on the local scene as a creator of spatial installations, textile objects, costumes as well as a performer. His work refers in its purpose, design, shape or size to the human body, opening up the topic of subjective identity. The human body in Jan's interpretation should be perceived as a communicator of interpersonal relations, so as a key to the memories of the past or as a mediator for reflection of the future. He has participated in several solo and group exhibitions, for example in Brno (TIC, Zaazrak), Leipzig (KUB Gallery), Prague (Holešovická Šachta), Budapest (FKSE, AQB) and Bucharest (ETAJ).
"My work explores the connections between the human body and its exterior layers (skin, costumes, clothes, etc.). The objects and costumes formed in the shapes of bodies then function as indicators of reciprocity, emotions or symbols of social statuses. My art practice is based on personal introspection, memories and observation of (interpersonal) relationships. Pop culture is also an important source of inspiration for me as I'm looking for answers in pop music or significant moments of the showbusiness buzz. My artworks then could be described as queer not only on the basis of personal experience, but also because of understanding the body and the human subject outside of normative categories. The queerness arises from a conscious connection to a world that operates outside of the binary.
Working predominantly with white vintage bed sheets or curtains, the process echoes ritualistic ripping and dyeing of the fabrics. The experimentation and exploration of working with textiles are closely connected to the depicted topics as I adjust, fold and then pin or sew together old home textiles into human-like bodies or costumes. This leads to the creation of objects that refer to the nuclear family, or the longing for life situations that are hard or impossible to achieve. I use these textile sculptures as tools to communicate and invent a shifting identity; limbs and fragments morph into organic structures embodying the concept of the ideal life."
The residency is organised in partnership with Meet Factory Prague.